Her beautiful songwriting puts you directly in her stories, serving as a form of escapism. When her deeply personal lyrics are combined with her heaven-sent melodies, you’ll never want to listen to anything else.
Maes’ debut album, “Willow” was released on Nov. 21, 2025. The 10-track album shares heartfelt stories of love, honesty and resilience. “Enamored Child” narrates the story of Maes’ childhood growing up in Minnesota. The first few lines paint a clear picture of Minnesota from Maes’ eyes, transporting you to the scene. “Enamored child. Staring out the window. Branches forming figures. And clouds connecting kissers.”
In the lead single, “Woodworking Woman”, Maes grapples with the idea of her life being preconceived or “written in the sky”. She reflects on what her past selves might’ve been feeling or searching for. “Did I wish I told my daughter something. Something about my younger self? Was I a mourning, mourning, mourning woman. Of my art that died when I neglected its life?” Listening to this song reminds me of all the women who’ve come before me and who’ll come after me.
I had the pleasure of seeing Maes live in concert in Portland, Oregon and Seattle in December, as she was not only an opener for Sydney Rose’s “I Know What I Want Tour” but also a part of Rose’s band. Watching the magic that was Maes switching back and forth between playing the violin and the guitar, truly enchanted me and everyone else in that room.
The dedication that she has to her craft is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. You can tell she’s put a considerable amount of time and energy into honing her skills while simultaneously making it all look oh so effortless. Listen now to the unforgettable talent and legend in the making, Lydia Maes.
